Abstract:
Amputation is necessitated following an accident or a medical condition often to save
a patient’s life. Despite the existence of the procedure and the rising number of
amputees in the Ghanaian context, the emotional experiences of both amputees
and their caregivers following amputation has been largely ignored. This qualitative
exploratory study explored the emotional experiences of amputees and their caregivers
following amputation. Using a semi-structured interview guide, ten (10) amputees
and ten (10) caregivers were interviewed. Findings revealed that caregivers and amputees
experienced a built up of negative emotions following amputaion. There were
slight disparities in the negative emotions experienced by amputees and their caregivers.
However, for both amputees and their caregiver, the experience of gratitude and
news breaking method influenced their emotional experiences. Implications of the
findings are discussed.
